Former Sevilla and Barcelona midfielder Seydou Keita broke off talks with
Liverpool to join Valencia

The former Sevilla and Barcelona midfielder Seydou Keita claims he had been in "advanced talks" with Liverpool but broke off discussions with the Anfield club once he was informed of Valencia's interest.

The 34-year-old Mali international, who has spent the last 18 months with Chinese outfit Dalian Aerbin, said that he was close to striking a deal but preferred a move back to Spain.

Keita told reporters at his Mestalla unveiling on Monday: "When we received the call from Valencia, talks with Liverpool were at a very advanced stage.

"But then I told my agent we were going to Valencia. I did not doubt for a second.

"When I came to play at Mestalla with Sevilla or Barcelona I suffered a lot to win, because this is a really big club with fantastic fans. That is why I opted to come here."